18 • TRAXXAS
DRIVING YOUR MODEL
Now it’s time to have some fun! This section contains instructions on driving and making
adjustments to your model. Before you go on, here are some important precautions to
keep in mind.
• Allow the model to cool for a few minutes between runs. This is particularly important
when using high capacity battery packs that allow extended periods of running.
Monitoring temperatures will extend the lives of the batteries and motors. See page 25
for advanced user information on monitoring temperatures.
• Do not continue to operate the model with low batteries or you could lose control of it.
Indications of low battery power include slow operation, sluggish servos (slow to return
to center), or ESC shutdown due to the Low-Voltage Detection circuitry. Stop immediately
at the first sign of weak batteries. When the batteries in the transmitter become weak, the
power light will begin to flash red. Stop immediately and install new batteries.
• Do not drive the model at night, on public streets, or in large crowds of people.
• If the model becomes stuck against an object, do not continue to run the motor.
Remove the obstruction before continuing. Do not push or pull objects with the model.
• Because the model is controlled by radio, it is subject to radio interference from many
sources beyond your control. Since radio interference can cause momentary losses of
control, allow a safety margin of space in all directions around the model in order to
prevent collisions.
• Use good, common sense whenever you are driving your model. Intentionally driving
in an abusive and rough manner will only result in poor performance and broken parts.
Take care of your model so that you can enjoy it for a long time to come.
• When using the supplied optional pinion for top speed running, limit your driving to
paved surfaces only. Running in grass and off-road could cause excessive loads on the
electrical system in the model.
• High performance vehicles produce small vibrations which may loosen hardware over
time. Frequently check wheel nuts and other screws on your vehicle to ensure that all
hardware remains properly tightened.
About Run Time
A large factor affecting run time is the type and condition of your batteries. The milliamp
hour (mAh) rating of the batteries determines how large their “fuel tank” is. A 3000mAh
battery pack will theoretically run twice as long as a 1500mAh sport pack. Because of the
wide variation in the types of batteries that are available and the methods with which
they can be charged, it’s impossible to give exact run times for the model.
Another major factor which affects run time is how the model is driven. Run times may
decrease when the model is driven repetitively from a stop to top-speed and with
repetitive hard acceleration.
Tips for Increasing Run Time
• Use batteries with the highest mAh rating you can purchase.
• Use a high-quality peak-detecting charger.
• Read and follow all maintenance and care instructions provided by the manufacturer of
your batteries and charger.
• Keep the VXL-3s cool. Get plenty of airflow across the ESC heat sinks.
• Use the correct Low-Voltage Detection setting for your battery (see page 16). Low-
Voltage Detection can be off for maximum NiMH battery runtime. Never use LiPo
batteries while Low-Voltage Detection is turned off.
• Lower your gear ratio. Installing a smaller pinion or larger spur gear will lower your
gear ratio, causing less power draw from the motor and battery, and reducing overall
operating temperatures.
• Maintain your model. Do not allow dirt or damaged parts to cause binding in the
drivetrain. Keep the motor clean.
mAh Ratings and Power Output
The mAh rating of the battery can effect your top speed performance. The higher
capacity battery packs experience less voltage drop under heavy load than low mAh
rated packs. The higher voltage potential allows increased speed until the battery begins
to become discharged.
RUNNING IN WET CONDITIONS
Your new Traxxas model is designed with water-resistant features to protect the
electronics in the model (receiver, servos, electronic speed control). This gives you the
freedom to have fun driving your model through puddles, wet grass, snow, and through
other wet conditions. Though highly water resistant, the model should not be treated as
though it is submersible or totally, 100% waterproof. Water resistance applies only to the
installed electronic components. Running in wet conditions requires additional care and
maintenance for the mechanical and electrical components to prevent corrosion of metal
parts and maintain their proper function.
Precautions
• Without proper care, some parts of your model can be seriously damaged due to
contact with water. Know that additional maintenance procedures will be required
after running in wet conditions in order to maintain the performance of your
model. Do not run your model in wet conditions if you are not willing to accept the
additional care and maintenance responsibilities.
•
Not all batteries can be used in wet environments.
Consult your battery manufacturer
to see if their batteries can be used in wet conditions. Do not use LiPo batteries in wet
conditions.
• The Traxxas TQi transmitter is not water resistant. Do not subject it to wet conditions
such as rain.
• Do not operate your model during a rain storm or other inclement weather where
lightning may be present.
• Do NOT allow your model to come in contact with salt water (ocean water), brackish
water (between fresh water and ocean water), or other contaminated water. Salt water
is highly conductive and highly corrosive. Use caution if you plan to run your model on
or near a beach.
Before Running Your Vehicle in Wet Conditions
1. Consult the section “After Running Your Vehicle in Wet Conditions” before proceeding.
Make sure you understand the additional maintenance required with wet running.
2. The wheels have small holes molded in to allow air to enter and exit the tire during
normal running. Water will enter these holes and get trapped inside the tires if holes
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